Shoe Making at Foxfire [Rabun Co.]

The Scandinavian Turn Shoe is a 10th century style shoe with a thin leather sole similar to a moccassin. We often refer to this style as “hiking slippers” due to their excellent ability to transmit the feel of the ground beneath one’s feet and their great traction on rocks. They are a very comfortable shoe.

This shoe style is made inside out and then turned right-side-out so that the stitching ends up on the inside. The upper can be made in many styles such as the traditional flap and button, a more modern lace up style, or a no-flap slipper. The sole is a mixture of recycled rubber powder and rubber cement which is pasted on the shoe in whatever thickness the maker desires. This allows for adding more rubber as the old rubber wears away. The upper is made of rugged Bison leather and can last a lifetime if properly cared for.